Managing Side Effects of Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy is effective because it attacks cancer cells. But since it is so strong, it can also impact healthy cells. This can cause side effects.
Common Chemotherapy Side Effects
Common chemotherapy side effects include:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Losing hair
- Losing appetite
- Losing weight
- Losing energy and vigor
- Stomach problems, including constipation and diarrhea
- Infertility
- Organ damage
- Growth problems in children
Management of Chemotherapy Side Effects at Wake Forest Baptist Health
Our goal at the Comprehensive Cancer Center is to prevent as many of these side effects as possible.
We prescribe anti-nausea and vomiting medication, and pain medication to manage side effects.
We are also very sensitive to the stress chemotherapy can have on your mental and psychological state. Dealing with cancer treatment challenges you and your family on issues from job security to finances to interpersonal relationships. As part of our multidisciplinary approach, we work with you to monitor and address these issues either through medication and/or by referral to our psychosocial oncology group.